Our Home Building Process
At Walnut Ridge Construction, our process is built on clarity, communication, and craftsmanship. We believe that building your dream home should be an enjoyable, transparent experience — not an overwhelming one. Our cost-plus model ensures you have complete visibility into every dollar spent, while our design-build process keeps your project moving efficiently from start to finish.
Custom Home Process from Start to Finish
1. New Home Questionnaire
Before we start design, we take time to understand your priorities — from lifestyle needs to desired finishes. Our Custom Home Questionnaire helps us align your goals with the home’s layout, design style, and budget.
2. Preconstruction Planning
Great homes start with great planning. Our Preconstruction Phase sets the foundation for success through clear expectations, detailed estimates, and proactive coordination with your architect, lender, and local building departments.
3. Purchasing a Lot
If you already have a lot then you're ahead of the game. If not, our team can help guide you to choosing the right one for the size home you want and give recommendations on local communities and areas.
4. Lot Surveyed (TOPO Survey)
Once you have a lot, we'll need to complete a TOPT Survey which costs $500 to see what size home we can fit on the lot and ensure there are no issues with the land. This step can also be done prior to you purchasing a lot.
5. Customized Floor Plan
Our design process blends creativity and functionality. We collaborate on custom floor plans that balance flow, aesthetics, and cost efficiency. You’ll have flexibility to modify layouts or select from our existing designs as a starting point.
6. Pricing Estimate
Based on your floor plan and desired finishes, we'll be able to provide you with an accurate estimate of the home you'd like to build which will include allowances for the finishes like cabinets, lighting, and appliances.
7. Cost-Plus Contract
Our contract use a cost-plus pricing model — the most transparent way to build custom homes with allowances for each of the finishes you choose. This approach allows you to see every vendor invoice, labor cost, and markup in real time. It’s fair, flexible, and ensures every dollar benefits your home — not unnecessary overhead.
8. Design & Finishes Selection
We'll schedule meetings with every subcontractor so you can meet and finalize your design selections. This covers everything from paint colors, cabinets, and countertops to doors, lighting, and plumbing fixtures. We make sure you've covered every detail so your new home is perfect.
9. Construction Financing
If you are financing the construction, we'll work with lenders who specialize in construction-to-permanent loans and custom home financing. Our team can guide you through lender selection, appraisal requirements, and draw schedules to keep your project moving smoothly.
10. Construction Begins
Construction takes approximately 8-12 months realistically. We'll move this process along as quickly as possible without compromising quality. Most delays are caused by new homeowners delaying choosing their finishes. So, to ensure we're on schedule, please follow our timeline recommendations.
11. Final Walkthrough
Once your new custom home is done, you'll mee with the builder, Kenny Schmidt, to do a final walkthrough. If there are any small punchout items, we'll take care of them immediately so you can move in as soon as possible. If something is missed, not to worry, our construction is backed by our builders warranty.
12. Close On Your New House
In most cases because you already own your lot, there is not an official closing. However, if there is one, we'll coordinate with the title company and any other 3rd parties to ensure you have all documentation and the closing goes smoothly. Our staff we'll get you through every step of the process stress free.
13. It's Time to Move In
Congratulations! It's time to move in. We'll make sure you have the keys, community information, and all manuals for appliances and other items inside the house. If you have any questions about anything in your new home, do not hesitate to reach out. We'll be here for you.
14. You'll Love Your New Home
After you've settled in, we'd love to hear from you. If you've had a great experience and love the work and dedication from Walnut Ridge Construction, the biggest compliment you can give us is a glowing review on Google.
15. Backed by our Warranty
At Walnut Ridge Construction, we stand behind every home we build. Our Warranty & Service Program ensures that any concerns after move-in are handled quickly and professionally — protecting your investment and peace of mind.
Ready to Start Building Your Home in Tennessee?
Your dream home deserves a builder who values your trust as much as your timeline. Let’s begin planning your custom home with a process built on integrity, precision, and peace of mind.
How We Build Better Homes
From your first consultation to your final walkthrough, we keep everything organized, honest, and easy to follow. You’ll work directly with our builder and project management team, ensuring every decision aligns with your goals, timeline, and budget.
Our Process Includes:
Initial Consultation & Lot Review: We listen to your vision, review your lot (if applicable), and discuss options.
Design & Planning: Collaborate with our team to create custom floor plans, exterior styles, and material selections.
Transparent Budgeting: You’ll see real-time costs, line by line, through our open-book cost-plus pricing model.
Construction Phase: Builder-led communication ensures your project stays on time and on budget.
Final Walkthrough & Warranty: We complete every project with a meticulous inspection and ongoing service support.
Our Commitment to Transparency
Transparency isn’t just a philosophy — it’s how we operate. By combining local expertise, an open-book approach, and builder-led communication, Walnut Ridge Construction delivers an experience that homeowners can trust from start to finish.
You’ll Appreciate:
100% cost visibility
Builder-direct updates
Proven communication systems
Long-term service and reliability
Ready to Tour a Spec Home?
Our available inventory changes frequently. Contact Walnut Ridge Construction to see current listings, schedule a showing, or learn about upcoming builds nearing completion.
Testimonials
Tellico Village
“We interviewed several builders before choosing Walnut Ridge, but what sold us was their open-book pricing and constant communication. We saw every invoice and cost, and there were zero surprises. The process was honest and smooth from start to finish.”
Sarah & Mark L.
Rarity Bay
“From our very first meeting, we knew we were in good hands. Kenny and his team took the time to understand our needs, our land, and our budget. Our home fits our lot perfectly and turned out even better than we imagined.”
Tom & Rachel B.
Loudon County
“The craftsmanship is outstanding. Every trim line, cabinet, and stone detail feels intentional. It’s clear Walnut Ridge Construction takes pride in every home they build.”
Greg & Melissa K.
WindRiver Community
“We were building from Florida, and Kenny kept us updated with progress photos, budget reports, and quick responses. We never felt out of the loop, even from hundreds of miles away.”
David & Karen T.
Monroe County
“We’ve built before, and this was by far the best experience. The cost-plus contract gave us peace of mind, and the workmanship exceeded expectations. We would recommend Walnut Ridge to anyone building in Tennessee.”
Mark & Sheila R.
Blount County
“I've had the pleasure of knowing the general contractor of Walnut Ridge Construction, Kenny Schmidt, for over 20 years. So, when it came time to build a house, there's only one person I trusted to take care of me. You'll never meet a more honest person in your life.”
David M. & Melanie W.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Walnut Ridge Construction process?
Our process includes consultation, design, transparent budgeting, construction, and warranty — all managed under our cost-plus model.
What is a cost-plus builder contract?
A cost-plus contract provides full transparency by showing every cost and markup, so homeowners always know where their investment is going.
Can Walnut Ridge help with design and floor plans?
Yes. We offer custom design and floor plan services to ensure every home fits your lifestyle, land, and budget.
Do you assist with construction financing?
Yes. We help clients connect with trusted lenders offering construction-to-permanent loan options for new home builds.
Do you provide a warranty after construction?
Yes. We stand behind every home we build with a comprehensive warranty and post-construction service program.
East Tennessee’s trusted builder for custom homes, additions, and renovations crafted with care and a foundation of honesty, transparency, and integrity. Trust your home with Walnut Ridge Construction.
Contact Us
Walnut Ridge Construction
General Contractor
TN General Contractor Lic. #80735
1916 Highway 411
Vonore, TN 37885
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